The Arthritis Research UK and Respiratory Centres at the University of Manchester have extensive research programmes investigating the genetic components of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and asthma. This project will initially focus on 2 associated loci; the IL6R gene and a region on chr17q12. It is already established that variants within these regions have opposing effects on the genetic susceptibility to asthma and RA. Because asthma and rheumatoid arthritis are thought to result from different immune responses this is an interesting mechanism in which to study disease causation for both diseases.
This project will uncover the causative genetic variant(s) underlying the associations in chr17q12 with asthma and RA, and explore the differing functional mechanism of the causative variant in IL6R.
The project will involve a wide range of laboratory and analytical techniques. Previously generated genotype data will be statistically analysed to determine the disease associated risk haplotype(s). This information will be used to select samples for downstream functional analysis. Novel genetic variants, including single nucleotide polymorphisms, insertions/deletions as well as transcription isoforms in the region will be catalogued using next-generation sequencing. The relationship between risk haplotype and transcription of genes in the region (eQTL) will be assessed on primary sorted cells (MACS), using techniques such as nanoString, OpenArray and RNA-seq. The mechanism by which the candidate causative genetic variant exerts its effect on the gene will be assessed using techniques such as chromosome conformation change (3C) and chromatin precipitation (ChIP). Publically available bioinformatics resources, including those generated from the encode project and 1000 genomes will be utilised throughout this project.
The project has potential for future clinical impact. Improved annotation of biological pathways important in determining disease susceptibility will lead to; sub grouping patients for better targeting treatments (stratified medicine).
The successful candidate will be trained in a wide-range of research methods such as extensive training in association analysis, next generation sequencing, bioinformatics analysis for sequence data, cell sorting and RNA analysis amongst other areas.
Eligibility
Applicants must have obtained or be about to obtain a First or Upper Second class UK honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in a relevant discipline.
Before you Apply
Applicants must make direct contact with preferred supervisors before applying. It is your responsibility to make arrangements to meet with potential supervisors, prior to submitting a formal online application.
How to Apply
For information on how to apply for this project, please visit the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Doctoral Academy website (https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/). Informal enquiries may be made directly to the primary supervisor. On the online application form select the appropriate subject title.
For international students, we also offer a unique 4 year PhD programme that gives you the opportunity to undertake an accredited Teaching Certificate whilst carrying out an independent research project across a range of biological, medical and health sciences. For more information please visit www.internationalphd.manchester.ac.uk
Your application form must be accompanied by a number of supporting documents by the advertised deadlines. Without all the required documents submitted at the time of application, your application will not be processed and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered. If you have any queries regarding making an application please contact our admissions team [Email Address Removed]
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. The full Equality, diversity and inclusion statement can be found on the website https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/research/apply/equality-diversity-inclusion/
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